Urban Farms Program for Homeless and Disabled
Photo credit: S:US
By Bryan Campos
Harlem View
May 17, 2021
Bryan Campos reported on our Urban Farms program for Harlem View, which highlights often under-reported community issues in Harlem, Upper Manhattan, and communities throughout New York City where City College students live, work and play.
Bryan interviewed S:US staff and urban farmers during our Earth Day volunteer event on how S:US serves people who have experienced homelessness, people who have mental illness, and people with intellectual/developmental disabilities. They also discussed how we use horticulture as a tool to improve wellness outcomes and help those who participate to achieve their personal and professional goals.
“We get about 500 pounds of food a year from this garden, which is distributed free of charge to the residents.”
– Mike Hollis, S:US Urban Farms Director
“The garden, especially in this time of COVID, is a way to get together safely, to be able to socialize at a distance, and to be able to enjoy fresh air and openness.”
– Judith Jackson, S:US Chief of Staff
“It keeps me busy. I learned a lot of things — I cut the grass, sweep up, and I take the garbage out.”
– Anthony, resident and Urban Farmer